Ahuriri Valley, backcountry ski tour

Early in the winter season there is often a wintry blast that comes in from the south west, drops a good layer of snow down low in the Mackenzie Basin, and into the Ahuriri Valley.
In early July 2015 we managed to sneak a ski tour in, skinning up from the Birchwood road , via the Dingleburn Route, to the saddle between the Ahuriri Valley and the Dingle Valley. The route is poled (marked) by DOC & follows an old 4wd track and makes for quick, easy access to the ridge. From the ridge there are easy tours to the north and south, accompanied by some spectacular views.

This tour is a good option when the snow level is low, and offers skiing from the car.